Ecofriendly travel accessories are items that can make tourism less wasteful, and thereby produce positive effects on the environment. Most long-distance trips and vacations heavily contribute to carbon emissions in the atmosphere. However, sustainable practices and gear can make travel a lot greener. When you visit destinations that preserve wildlife, don’t let your lifestyle be the reason for their contamination. By investing in eco-friendly travel gear and accessories, you can reduce exploitation of earth’s resources, as well as set a great example!
1. Bamboo Toothbrush
Toothbrushes are among the essentials of travelling, and they do not take up much space in luggage. However, the average consumer toothbrush is made of plastic and discarded after three to six months of usage. This poses a huge environmental problem, given the innumerable number of toothbrushes that end up in landfills every day. Bamboo brushes are light, organic, and just as effective; it’s a wonder the world hasn’t switched to them permanently yet.
2. Silicone or Stainless Steel Water Bottles
Disposable plastic bottles are an abomination of the modern society. They take hundreds to thousands of years to disintegrate, becoming a colossal burden to the earth’s capacity. Plastic debris in oceans kills about a million marine animals every year. Silicone and stainless steel bottles are not just durable and environmentally friendly, but also keep your drink hot or cold for longer.
3. Sustainable Shopping Bags
No trip is complete without shopping from the local markets. Carry a few reusable bags, so you don’t need the conventional plastic bags to carry your things. Shopping bags made from cloth or other recycled materials are rather hardwearing as well.
4. Solid Toiletries
Soap, shampoo, and deodorant are available as solid bars, which are a lot easier to fit into a bag and they never make a mess. They last a long time, and lack undesirable plastic packaging. Always select toiletries that are free of hazardous chemicals.
5. Reusable Straws
One can manage a drink without a straw, but if you really need one, then opt for a reusable one. You will easily find some made of thick plastic, stainless steel, or bamboo. Disposable plastic straws are a plague for our environment (not exaggerating).
6. Reusable cutlery and utensils
Instead of depending on disposable plates, cups, spoons and forks, you can just take some of your regular home utensils and cutlery on the trip. They may be a bit heavier, but they make an even bigger difference. You could also invest in a bamboo tableware set, which is light and organic.
7. Solar Power Banks
You can easily buy a portable solar power bank for around $30. It is highly convenient, utilizes renewable energy, and very useful for keeping all your mobile devices charged during outdoor expeditions.
8. Recycled Toilet Paper
Recycled toilet paper is cheaper and a lot lighter on the environment. You will save money and preserve the earth’s resources at the same time.
9. Reusable Makeup Wipes
Disposable makeup wipes are handy, but you may not know that they are manufactured from an unholy combination of non-biodegradable plastic fibers that take forever to breakdown. In contrast, reusable/washable makeup wipes are much more hygienic and luxurious for the skin. They are made from organic or sustainable microfibers that are great for you and the environment.
10. Bee Wax Wraps
If you are planning to take some snacks or sandwiches for the journey, replace plastic-based wraps with organic bee wax wraps. These wraps are washable and compostable, which makes them ideal for everyday use.
Cover image: Photo via Unsplash
